October 11, 2024

Dear Friends, 

The season of thanksgiving is a great time of the year. An opportunity to go for a walk and enjoy the changing colours of the trees  The chance to gather with my family for a turkey dinner with all the sides.  A time to take stock of  life and to give thanks to others for the blessing they have been in our lives. But what about God? To whom are we ultimately thankful for these gifts of life and more?

This Sunday we will be taking a look at  the story of one man who responded with a thankful humility to Jesus after he had been cured of the horrific disease of leprosy. (Luke 17:11-17) There were nine others who were also healed but only this man returned. I think it reminds us that living a life of thanksgiving and gratitude is a choice that we can make. Choosing praise and thanksgiving as a discipline doesn’t mean ignoring our losses, disappointments, or failures. Instead, it means refusing to be imprisoned by them, guarding us against feelings of entitlement, while remembering all we have to be thankful for.  A grateful appreciation of God's generosity also inspires a spirit of generosity within us, aligning us with God’s will for us in Christ. We not only have much to be thankful for but we do have someone we can ultimately thank. The one man returned to Jesus and fell at his feet in worship and praise. Practice thanksgiving and it will transform your life. So join me as we take a look at this wonderful story in a message entitled “Remembering To Be Thankful”     

As we are celebrating thanksgiving, I would  like to express my thankfulness to our GPC community for all your prayerful support. My prayer has always been that together, we are transforming lives and inspiring hope both within our congregation, in our community and with mission partners around the world.

I encourage you to consider making a special offering this Thanksgiving as an expression of thanks for God's generosity and faithfulness, and as a symbol of hope and trust in God's enduring faithfulness. You can find options about how to give at glenbrook.ca

“Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16

Happy Thanksgiving

Pastor Ian